Handling and Storing Your Bowling Balls: Best Practices

Handling and Storing Your Bowling Balls: Best Practices

As a passionate bowler, you know that your bowling balls are valuable assets that require proper care and maintenance. Handling and storing your bowling balls correctly not only helps prolong their lifespan but also ensures optimal performance on the lanes. Here are some best practices to consider:

Handling Your Bowling Balls

Avoid Dropping or Slamming: Treat your bowling balls with care and avoid dropping or slamming them onto hard surfaces. Sudden impacts can damage the ball’s core or coverstock, affecting its overall performance.
Clean After Each Use: After each bowling session, make sure to clean your bowling ball using an approved ball cleaner. This removes oil, dirt, and residue from the surface, helping to maintain consistent ball reaction.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can harm your bowling balls. Avoid leaving them in your car trunk during hot summer days or exposing them to freezing temperatures. Drastic temperature changes can lead to cracking or warping.
Use a Ball Bag: Invest in a high-quality bowling ball bag to protect your balls during transportation. Look for bags with padded compartments to prevent accidental damage during transit.
Avoid Excessive Moisture: While bowling balls are designed to withstand some moisture, excessive exposure to water can cause swelling or cracking. Avoid leaving your balls in damp areas or directly on wet surfaces.
Handle Finger Holes Carefully: When picking up your bowling ball, avoid putting excessive pressure on the finger holes. This can cause them to stretch over time, resulting in an improper fit.

Storing Your Bowling Balls

Store in a Controlled Environment: Find a storage area with a stable temperature and humidity level. Extreme fluctuations in temperature and humidity can affect the ball’s performance and lifespan. A cool, dry room is ideal for long-term storage.
Use a Ball Cup or Stand: When not in use, place your bowling balls on a ball cup or stand instead of directly on the ground or a hard surface. This helps prevent flat spots and maintains the ball’s shape.
Rotate the Balls: To avoid continuous pressure on one side of the ball, rotate the balls in their storage containers regularly. A quarter turn once a week is recommended to relieve stress on the outer layer.
Avoid Excessive Pressure: Be cautious when stacking or piling multiple bowling balls on top of each other. Excessive pressure can cause damage, especially if the balls have different weights or construction materials.

Remember, proper handling and storage are essential for getting the most out of your bowling balls. By following these best practices, you can ensure that your bowling balls stay in top condition, ready to deliver strikes on the lanes!